Riyadh Lights, Spanish Giants: Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona in a Copa del Rey Semi-Final Shootout
11 February 2026
The Riyadh Metropolitano hosts a heavyweight clash as Atlético Madrid face Barcelona in the first leg of the 2025-2026 Copa del Rey semi-finals, a matchup poised to shape the route to the crown.
Barcelona reached this stage after defeating Alavés 2-1 in the quarterfinals, keeping their title quest alive with steady, confident play.
Atlético Madrid advanced by routing Real Betis 5-0 in the quarterfinals, repeating their return to the semi-finals and signaling intent to defend their spot at the business end of the competition.
The broadcasters have lined up, and fans can expect comprehensive coverage across the region. A majority of viewers will be able to watch via MBC Egypt 2 and MBC Action, with online access through the Shahid platform for streaming enthusiasts.
As a reminder, the Roji Blancos’ rivals head into a fixture where every goal adds pressure for the next leg, and spectators will be treated to a tactical duel between two of Spain’s most storied clubs.
In the following sections, this article outlines the channels, streaming options, and key details for catching Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona in the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg, along with some quick context on team form and match timing.
Broadcast channels
In the Middle East and North Africa, Shahid has secured rights for the Copa del Rey 2025-2026. The match between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona will be shown on MBC Egypt 2 and MBC Action, available for free in the region.
Watching online
For viewers online, the match can be streamed through MBC Shahid, allowing supporters to follow the action from anywhere with an internet connection (subject to regional restrictions).
Match details
Date: Thursday, February 12, 2026. Venue: Riyadh Metropolitano. Kick-off: 23:00 Saudi time and 00:00 UAE time, with commentary provided by Medhat Shalaby for MBC.
The match is part of the Copa del Rey’s 2025-2026 campaign, continuing a storied rivalry between two of Spain’s most successful clubs. The anticipation is high as both sides seek to gain the upper hand ahead of the return leg.
Note: A NordVPN promotion appears alongside the broadcast, offering viewers outside the region a potential way to access the feed, should local rights and geo-blocks permit.
Two punchlines for good measure as the weekend nears:
Punchline 1: If this game were a sniper, the shot would land in the back of the net—precision, timing, and the stadium suddenly believing in miracles.
Punchline 2: Like a top-tier comedian slipping in a killer one-liner, Barca and Atleti are lining up shots with such focus that even the net will beg for a replay.
